Artist Recovery Podcast Ep. 14 | From Combat to Canvas: The Untold Journey of Artist John Rios

In this unforgettable episode of the Artist Recovery Podcast, host Rich Wright sits down with John Rios, a self-taught creative powerhouse whose art has graced the stages of rock legends like KISS, Motley Crue, Ted Nugent, Kid Rock, Eminem, Uncle Kracker and Alice Cooper. But this isn’t just a story about fame and paintbrushes—it’s about resilience, healing, and rediscovery through art.
🎤 WHY YOU SHOULD WATCH THIS INTERVIEW:
This episode isn’t just for artists—it’s for anyone chasing a dream, healing from trauma, or looking for inspiration to keep going when the odds are stacked high. John’s authenticity and powerful storytelling will leave you thinking, laughing, and possibly crying. Whether you’re a creative, a veteran, or just someone seeking a deeper purpose, this one is for you.

👨‍🎨 WHO IS JOHN RIOS?
From a kid doodling in rural Michigan to a Marine Corps veteran turned internationally recognized illustrator, John's journey is a testament to the power of belief, survival, and transformation. With no formal training, he rose through sheer willpower and raw talent—proving that your background doesn’t define your future.

🧠💥 MUST-WATCH MOMENTS:

[03:00] John's gritty small-town beginnings and his first spark of artistic passion.

[04:20] “I just knew I was an artist.” — John shares his early intuition and unshakable belief in his creative calling.

[10:50] The profound concept of creativity as a gift of receiving—this will challenge how you define art forever.

[13:00] Heartbreaking: John opens up about losing his mother at age 15 and how it shaped his life.

[22:14] Drafted into the Marines by his dad?! The wild story of how John unexpectedly enlisted and faced the realities of war.

[31:00] The emotional toll of service in Lebanon—and how PTSD reshaped his worldview and personal life.

[40:00] “People can’t buy what they don’t know exists.” — John’s game-changing advice for artists trying to get noticed.

[54:30] How a random lunch break and a bold move led him to a 10-year collaboration with Ted Nugent.

[1:02:00+] The priceless lessons on self-belief, persistence, and being your own advocate in an unpredictable creative industry.


🧠 TOPICS COVERED:

Self-taught artistry & impostor syndrome

Grieving, growing, and grit

Military mental health and PTSD

How trauma influences creativity

Networking like a pro (even with no formal resume!)

Overcoming rejection and proving the doubters wrong

Business wisdom from a commercial art legend

💬 JOIN THE CONVERSATION:
Which part of John’s story hit you hardest? Drop a comment below to let us know 👇

🔥 LIKE, SHARE & SUBSCRIBE 🔔
Don’t miss future episodes of Artist Recovery Podcast where we highlight the most powerful stories of transformation, hustle, and healing through art.

Connect with John: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-rios-6527664/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/john_rios_designs/

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Always remember, Listen to your Heart and Be Kind to Your Mind! -Rich Wright

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